1998 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Mazda 323

To start off, both 1998 BMW 320 and 1998 Mazda 323 were released in the same year (1998). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 320 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 320 1998 Mazda 323
Make BMW Mazda
Model 320 323
Year Released 1998 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2169 cc 1324 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 74 HP
Torque 210 Nm 109 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 71 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 83.6 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1055 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L